Nikki de Lima

How Children Succeed by Paul Tough

This book can be summed up into a few words – protect your children from chronic stress.

Being there for your kids whenever there are stressful situations, hugging and kissing them, and making them feel secure would be a solid foundation of their future success.

According to studies, children who have responsive parents or caregivers are more curious, more creative, more empathetic, and happier with their lives.

Those who experienced chronic stress during the early stage of their lives had difficulty coping up with negative situations in their lives.

They are more afraid to try something new. They trust people less. This kind of stress also affects their body. Prolonged exposure with stress weakens the blood vessels which could result to heart attack, stroke, and other diseases related to body’s blood circulation.

When I read this, my mind started to recall the family history of my students, friends, and relatives who seem to have the characteristics of the children with adverse childhood experiences. It totally made sense.

This book contains other research-based truths that any teacher, parent, or child-minder could use. Definitely worth reading.